Quetzal Colinegro
Large-tailed Trogon
Trogon (melanurus) macroura
Song
Black-tailed Trogon (Large-tailed)
Appearance: Trogon melanurus macroura is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive appearance. It has a black head, back, and upper breast, with a white throat bordered by a narrow black line. The underparts are bright red, and the tail is black with broad white tips on the outer feathers, giving it a striking appearance.
Habitat: This subspecies typically inhabits humid forests, both primary and secondary, as well as wooded areas near rivers or streams. In Colombia, it can be found in the western and northern regions where suitable forest habitat exists.
Behavior: Trogons are known for their characteristic perching behavior where they sit still for long periods on a branch, waiting to catch flying insects or small fruits. They are also known for their distinctive call, which is a series of low-pitched whistles.
Breeding: Trogon melanurus macroura typically nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. The female usually lays 2-3 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
Conservation Status: While there is limited specific information on the conservation status of Trogon melanurus macroura in Colombia, the Black-tailed Trogon as a species is generally considered to be of least concern in terms of conservation status, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Distribution
The Large-tailed Trogon (Trogon (melanurus) macroura) a subspecies of the Black-tailed Trogon. The distribution of Trogon melanurus macroura in Colombia is mainly concentrated in the eastern and northern parts of the country, specifically within the following regions:
Amazon Region and North of Colombia
Taxonomy
The Large-tailed Trogon (Trogon melanurus macroura)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Trogoniformes
- Family: Trogonidae
- Genus: Trogon
- Species: Trogon melanurus
- Subsp: macroura
Vocalization
Call: The vocalization of the Trogon melanurus macroura is typically a series of low-pitched, melodious whistles that are repetitive and distinctive. The calls are often described as soft and flute-like, with a gentle quality that carries through the forest understory.
Territorial Calls: Trogon melanurus macroura uses its vocalizations to establish and defend its territory against intruders. Males may produce more elaborate and persistent calls during the breeding season to attract mates and deter rivals.
Courtship Calls: During courtship displays, both male and female Trogons may engage in a duet of calls that serve as a means of bonding and signaling readiness to mate. These calls can be more intense and varied than their typical territorial calls.
Location Calls: Trogon melanurus macroura's vocalizations also help individuals locate each other within the dense forest habitats. The distinctiveness of their calls enables them to communicate effectively even in dense vegetation where visual cues may be limited.
Variability: While the general characteristics of Trogon melanurus macroura's vocalizations are consistent, there can be some variability in calls between individuals and regions. This variability may be influenced by factors such as age, sex, or environmental conditions.
